[Latest & Classic] Recommended Western Music BGM for Sports Day & Athletic Festival [2025]

Never Surrender2Pac

2PAC – Never Surrender [MOTIVATION]

Meaning “never surrender,” Never Surrender is a hip-hop tune that’s perfect for a sports day where everyone strives toward their goals.

With its strong impact, this track is recommended for those who find ordinary selections unsatisfying.

The orchestral performance is also highly energetic—just listening might raise your heart rate.

Since today’s junior high school students are familiar with hip-hop, I think a track by 2Pac, a West Coast legend, will go over well.

Hot StuffDonna Summer

Hot Stuff

At sports days and athletic festivals, you want a song everyone can dance to and really get excited about, right? In terms of name recognition and an infectious groove, Hot Stuff is about as perfect as it gets.

This track was released in 1979 by Donna Summer, the singer once known as the Queen of Disco.

Many people have probably heard the intro phrase in commercials and elsewhere.

It’s a cool number featuring Donna Summer’s funky vocals over a disco beat.

Separate WaysJourney

Journey – Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) (Official HD Video – 1983)

Journey is an American rock band formed in 1973.

Their song “Separate Ways” is notable for its catchy chorus melody.

The powerful vocals, which naturally boost your motivation as you listen, make it a perfect BGM choice for school sports days and athletic festivals.

It’s also a highly recognizable track frequently heard on TV shows and commercials, so it’s great for getting everyone excited.

Compared to many rock songs, its tempo isn’t that fast, which helps it fit well in school event settings—another reason it’s recommended.

Carry OnKygo & Rita Ora’s

Carry On (from the Original Motion Picture “POKÉMON Detective Pikachu”) (Official Video)

This is the track “Carry On,” a collaboration between Kygo, a producer known for tropical house, and singer Rita Ora.

It was the theme song for the film Detective Pikachu, which was shocking in many ways.

Isn’t it already a hit with kids, too? The stylish piano sound matches Rita Ora’s clear, transparent vocals perfectly.

The warm message woven into the song is also moving.

It’s a track that gets you excited without being too intense!

TouchLittle Mix

Little Mix – Touch (Official Video)

Little Mix is a British girl group known for each member’s standout personality and exceptional vocal prowess.

This is “Touch,” released in 2016.

Right after the song begins, it has an airy vibe that makes you think it might be a laid-back track, but from the chorus onward it snaps into place.

With its polyrhythms, it has a magical quality that naturally carries listeners along.

Featuring high-tone female vocals, it’s an incredibly energetic song.

P.S. I Hope You’re Happy ft. blink-182The Chainsmokers

The Chainsmokers – P.S. I Hope You’re Happy (Lyric Video) ft. blink-182

The American DJ duo The Chainsmokers’ track “P.

S.

I Hope You’re Happy.” It’s a highly dramatic song about heartbreak, and rather than a danceable tune, it’s more of a mid-tempo track to listen to.

For example, playing it during a results announcement or in a dramatic scene could create an incredible atmosphere.

It’s exactly the kind of song a sports day DJ could choose for a special moment—with this pick, you can’t go wrong!

Bam Bam ft. Ed SheeranCamila Cabello

Camila Cabello – Bam Bam (Official Music Video) ft. Ed Sheeran

Bam Bam is a classic collaboration between singer Camila Cabello, formerly of Fifth Harmony, and Ed Sheeran.

Although Camila Cabello is from Cuba, the song beautifully blends Latin musical elements—reflecting her roots—with Ed Sheeran’s folk and pop sensibilities.

Featuring a catchy chorus and Latin rhythms delivered through lively guitar, piano, and percussion, it’s highly accessible and leaves you feeling upbeat.